Coles turns takeaway with range of 40 ready-made meals

FORGET cooking for yourself at dinner time, Australia's two major supermarkets are now competing on which can deliver shoppers the best and cheapest pre-packed meals.

Targeting those who feel too busy to make dinner each night, Coles has introduced a range of takeaway meals.

It follows a similar move from Woolworths last year.

The range will include soups, curries, pizza, pasta and fresh sauces.

It is understood that they will start from $5 each.

Coles has told NewsCorp that it had "doubled" its range of products and improved those already on the shelves.

"We know our customers lead busy lives and they have told us they want help with the daily 'what's for dinner' dilemma, so we're introducing great value options for a quick dinner for one or to serve the whole family without compromising on taste," Coles' Charlotte Rhodes said in a statement.

Woolworths Chairman Gordon Cairns said last year his chain's goal was not only to compete against other supermarkets but also takeaway restaurants.

Figures from researchers IBISWorld estimated the prepared-food market in Australia was worth $900 million a year.